Arthur Ranger

Arthur Alvin Ranger, 87, of Charlevoix, passed away on June 19, 2020 at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey.  He was born on December 31, 1932 in Charlevoix, the son of Arthur and Viola (West) Ranger.

Arthur was raised in Charlevoix, and went on to attend the University of Michigan where he earned a PhD in Aerospace Engineering.  On July 12, 1958 he married Patricia Ratigan in Charlevoix.  He served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1962 earning the rank of First Lieutenant.

Arthur’s great love in life was flying his RV-7A airplane, especially to Beaver Island, and between Charlevoix and Port Charlotte, FL where he and Patricia wintered.  Earlier this year Arthur received the Federal Aviation Administration's highest award, The Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.   This award recognizes pilots who practiced safe flight operations continuously for 50 years or more.  He was also a long time member of the Charlevoix Historical Society, Charlevoix Lions Club, and Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) of Florida.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia Ranger, three children, Corinne (Paul) Vita, Robert (Lisa) Ranger, and William (Amy) Ranger, daughter-in-law, Beth Ranger, sister, Virginia (James) Lahde, and seven grandchildren: Scott, Alissa, Jonathan, Julia, Max, Emma, and Isabelle.  He is predeceased by a son, Arthur Ranger.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Charlevoix Historical Society, PO Box 525, Charlevoix, MI 49720.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com